There’s not much we would change about our dogs. After all, the love us unconditionally we should do the same for them. But, there is one thing that can make a dog owner go crazy – shedding. Between the constant brushing and vacuuming, it seems like we’re cleaning up dog hair every other minute! And if you have allergies, it’s so much worse. So, we’ve rounded up some of the best small dog breeds that don’t shed.

Affenpinscher

This breeds name actually means “monkey-like terrier.” The Affenpinscher is a fearless breed with a knack for alerting you when strangers are near. Their wiry coat doesn’t shed much and has little odor. Their low maintenance coat means you only have to brush them twice a week.

Basenji

This minimally-shedding breed has a short, fine coat that doesn’t require much – other than occasional brushing. They’re also a quiet breed, making them perfect dogs for apartment dwellers.

Bichon Frise

This breed is an actual non-shedding dog. They are a great breed for those with allergies. However, they are not a low maintenance breed. The Bichon Frise’s hair grows quite a bit so frequent grooming is required.

Bolognese

Similar to the Bichon Frise, this breed doesn’t shed. Their coat must be brushed out regularly, though, and requires daily grooming.

Brussels Griffon

This pint-sized breed is a great companion for those looking for a non-shedder. They come in both smooth-coated and rough-coated versions and do well with regular grooming.

Chinese Crested

If you’re looking to avoid shedding completely, why not get a hairless breed? The Chinese Crested comes in two coat types: powderpuff and hairless. Hairless Chinese Crested only have hair on the head, tail, and feed. Powderpuffs, on the other hand, have a thin coat of fine hair that doesn’t shed much.

Coton De Tulear

Though this breed has a long, fluffy coat, it is actually considered hypoallergenic. They do require daily grooming to help maintain their coats, but this gentle breed is perfect for those suffering from allergies.

Havanese

This playful and spunky breed hailed from Cuba, but they sport a coat that doesn’t shed. Weekly brushing and regular baths are all they need.

Maltese

The Maltese dates back nearly 30 centuries, most likely because of their charming personality and non-shedding coat. They do need regular brushing, though, to avoid matting along with the occasional bath to remove any dirt and debris.

Lhasa Apso

This playful yet calm breed hails from Tibet and makes the perfect companion. They don’t shed, but do require maintenance. In fact, some owners keep their Lhasa Apso in a “puppy cut” to avoid daily brushing and grooming.

Miniature Schnauzer

This highly intelligent and cheerful breed hardly sheds. Miniature Schnauzers are an adaptable breed that can live pretty much anywhere as long as their family is around. Weekly brushing and regular grooming is all they need.

Poodle

One of the most widely known non-shedding breed is the Poodle. They are both non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Poodles come in Miniature, Toy, and Standard sizes. All are highly intelligent and easily trainable, making them excellent family companions. Their coat does require regular grooming, though.

Scottish Terrier

This bold and confident breed has a big personality in a tiny body. They have weather-resistant and wiry coats that don’t shed a lot. Scottish Terriers do need regular brushing and grooming, though.

Shih Tzu

The breed known as the “little lion dog” has long, silky hair that is surprisingly very low-shedding. Shih Tzu’s are a proud breed that prefers to be a house pet and loves to be around their humans.

West Highland White Terrier

Often referred to as “Westies,” this breed is intelligent, happy, and loyal. They have coarse, white hair that doesn’t shed much. Westies are curious with a moderate energy level and an independent streak.

Xoloitzcuintli

Another hairless breed, the Xoloitzcuintli – or “Mexican Hairless” – is a rare and ancient breed that are either hairless or coated. Hairless breeds tend to have a small amount of hair on the hairs whereas the coated breeds have short, fine coats that hardly shed. They are an attentive and affectionate breed, but extra care must be taken with hairless breeds as their skin needs to be protected from the elements.

Yorkshire Terrier

This breed is full of personality yet is affectionate and sprightly. They don’t shed, but will benefit from a daily brush. Since they are terriers, they have a spunky personality and tend to be fearless. But, they are just as happy sitting on your lap.

Whether you are allergic to or just sick of constantly picking up dog hair, consider one of these small breeds that don’t shed.